First Look At The Zeiss Otus 85mm F/1.4, How Does It Hold Up To The 55mm?

It was widely accepted that the Zeiss Otus 55mm F/1.4 was one of the top, if not the top, 35mm format lenses on the market today. So, when Zeiss officially unveiled their latest addition to the Otus line earlier this week, the 85mm F/1.4, people started wondering if Zeiss could really match or even surpass the massive quality from the 55mm. Matt Granger, formerly known as “That Nikon Guy,” just released a great hands on look at the new 85mm Otus and specifically talks about how it compares to the 55mm Otus. Granger has had the amazing opportunity to be shooting with the 85mm Otus for the last several months and took it with him on a world tour of sorts, so he has plenty of full res images for you to enjoy as well over on his website. I have a request in to review the new Otus myself, and am excited to give it a try. But I can tell you there is no way I will be purchasing one. I simply don’t have the budget to support a purchase like that. But, as many of you mentioned in the official announcement post, this lens could be a great candidate for rental when you feel like using one. For those interested, pre-orders for the 85mm F/1.4 Otus is now available over on B&H.

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What are your thoughts on this first look at the Otus 85mm f/1.4? Do you think that the performance of this lens justifies the price for you? Leave a comment below!

Anthony Thurston is a photographer based in the Salem, Oregon area specializing in Boudoir. He recently started a new project, Fiercely Boudoir to help support the growing boudoir community. Find him over on Instagram. You may also connect with him via Email.

Q&A Discussions

I think if you shoot portraits, get the lens. I kind of see it as purchasing a bit of a competitive advantage. The other lenses from Nikon and Canon are great, but this lens is going to give you a look that not everyone will be able to achieve, because of the cost.

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